^ The schools are quite different, but yes, they are peers in terms of academic rep.
Because they are so different, do familiarize yourself with them as well as possible and decide which of them comprises the better overall fit – in terms of academics, social and cultural environment, food/dorms, and yes, even weather. (Given the cost discrepancy – if it’s Berkeley, your decision is easy; if it’s Cornell, your decision is hard)
@Prof99 I really do like Cornell’s seclusion in all honesty. I’ve lived in the suburbs from 18 years, and in the city for 2, but I can say that I’d really like that change of scenery.
@merc81 Yes, I really do enjoy geographical diversity. In particular, I spent two years at a university where many were international students and I truly believe interacting with these students helped expand my worldview. So definitely in that department, Berkeley loses out. Also, thanks for referencing that ranking, I’ll be sure to check it out.
@prezbucky I actually went to school for two years in Boston haha. While I know that upstate New York tends to have harsher weather overall, I did spend my freshman year in a blizzard. I would say that it wasn’t a major issue by any means. But yes, I would say that I’m pretty accustomed to/equipped for crazy northeast weather.
@keurimja : Consider that if you were currently ensconced in a four year program, you might now be considering a study abroad opportunity in France, Spain, India or China. Two years in Ithaca would, overall, challenge your sense of familiarity no more than would be the case in that common scenario. Then also consider that a moderate challenge to your sense of familiarity would be a good thing.
You have two great options in these schools. Wishing you luck and success whichever you choose.
@merc81 Very true, though I do have the option to study abroad during the summer at either school. Anyways, thanks for your input.
Can anyone also attest to the prevalence of “grade deflation” at either school?
Actually, Cal probably has a greater percentage of international students than Cornell (or at least about the same).
Frankly, I would not spend the extra money on a lifestyle preference as both could get you to grad school equally well (and I prefer the Bay Area to upstate NYS).
@merc81, the OP’s gone to school in Boston. Upstate NYS will be different but not that different.
@PurpleTitan It certainly isn’t a “make or break” factor, but thanks for your insight. As I’ve iterated before, what I care about most are the chances of attending a top grad school, as well as the availability to conduct research. From what I’ve gathered on this thread, and from my own research, is that both schools are quite comparable in both areas.
Re #25, I saw the Boston part. However, the OP also stated that she’d “really like Berkeley in that it would be very familiar.” This was the comment to which I was responding.
I think you are correct in your assessment that your choices would be comparable with respect to their research opportunities.
As an opinion regarding grade inflation, the most common grades awarded for hard, sincere academic work at almost any institution are A and B. “Inflation/deflation” is a concept that would appear to apply more to students who are unwilling to give their full effort.
Cornell. Too many distractions at Berkeley : protests, homeless, excessive political correctness.